Treatment

Treatment with replacement corticosteroids will control the symptoms of this disease. However, you will usually need to take these drugs for life. People often receive a combination of glucocorticoids (cortisone or hydrocortisone) and mineralocorticoids (fludrocortisone).

Never skip doses of your medication for this condition, because life-threatening reactions may occur.

The health care provider may increase the medication dose because of:

Infection

Injury

Stress

Surgery

During an extreme form of adrenal insufficiency, called adrenal crisis, you must inject hydrocortisone immediately. Supportive treatment for low blood pressure is usually needed as well.

Some people with Addison's disease are taught to give themselves an emergency injection of hydrocortisone during stressful situations. It is important for you to always carry a medical identification card that states the type of medication and the proper dose you need in case of an emergency. Your health care provider may also tell you to always wear a Medic-Alert tag (such as a bracelet) alerting health care professionals that you have this condition in case of emergency.

Expectations (prognosis)

With hormone replacement therapy, most people with Addison's disease are able to lead normal lives.

Complications

Complications can occur if you take too little or too much adrenal hormone supplement.